Winter storms can be divisive. While some enjoy the beauty of a fresh-fallen snow, others cringe at the sight of a single flake hitting the ground.

People’s thoughts on power outages tend to be less varied. Aside from some rare, overzealous board-game enthusiasts, most folks prefer to keep their lights, appliances and heat running, especially on frigid winter evenings.

Should you lose power this winter, here are some steps you can take to stay warm.

• Think ahead and have an emergency supply kit ready. You might need it at a time like this.
• As soon as you lose power, close off unused rooms to consolidate and retain heat.
• Wear layered clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags to stay warm.
• Let faucets drip or trickle to prevent pipes from freezing bursting, which can cause extensive water damage. If you believe your pipes have frozen, call a plumber as soon as possible.
• Never use generators or outdoor heating or cooking equipment, like a grill or propane heater, indoors. In addition to presenting a fire risk, it could expose you and your family to dangerous carbon monoxide.
• Never heat your home using the stove or oven, either. If you use a generator, keep it outside in a well-ventilated area at least 20 feet away from any door, window or vent.

• Limit your time outdoors. If you must venture outside, dress in layers and cover up any exposed skin to protect against frostbite. If your clothes get wet, replace them with dry ones.
• Know how to recognize hypothermia. Warning signs in adults include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, slurred speech, memory loss and fumbling hands. In infants, signs include bright red and cold skin and low energy.
• Check on your neighbors, especially older adults and young children, who are the most vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
• If you’re losing heat and don’t think you can make it until the power returns, head to a relief shelter if you can make it safely. You can locate the nearest shelter by downloading the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s mobile app or texting “SHELTER” and your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA). For Spanish, text REFUGIO and your zip code. (Standard text message rates apply.)
• If there’s any doubt the food in your refrigerator or freezer has gone bad, throw it out. Check with your insurance agent to see if your homeowners insurance policy covers food spoilage due to a power outage. If not, it’s a relatively inexpensive update that you’ll be thankful to have if you ever need it.
• If the power is out for more than a day, FEMA also suggests throwing out any refrigerated medication, unless the label says otherwise. If it’s an emergency, consult with your doctor or a pharmacist first.

Contact a AAA insurance agent to learn how your homeowners coverage protects you from winter damage.

Do you have a memorable power outage story? Share it with us in the comments.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Getting into a car crash is overwhelming. On top of damage to your car, you may have injuries or worry about the cost of repairs. Whether you experience a major crash or a minor fender bender, the process of filing an insurance claim can be stressful. Prepare yourself by becoming familiar with the basic steps of how to file auto insurance claims.

How to File an Auto Insurance Claim

Contact the Police Immediately

Despite our best defensive driving efforts, most of us experience a crash at some point during our lives. Perhaps someone backed into your car in a parking lot or ignored a traffic signal. Regardless of the cause of the crash, here are a few tips on what you should do immediately after.

In addition to making sure everyone is safe, taking photos of damages and contacting AAA Roadside Assistance if needed, it is important to call the police right away so that injuries can be addressed and the event can be documented properly. The officer who arrives at the scene will record many of the facts that you will need for your insurance claim to be complete. These include where and when the crash took place, identifying information for the parties involved, insurance information and a description of what occurred.

Click here to learn what to do if you’ve be in a hit-and-run.

Inform Your Insurance Carrier

While the police report of your crash will not be available immediately, contact your insurance company right away. Whether you file your claim by phone, online or app, you should have your policy information on hand. During the initial filing, be prepared to provide your insurance policy number, driver’s license number and other identifying information.

A representative can explain the claims process and walk you through a series of questions regarding your crash. You will be asked to provide details of the incident as well as the date, time, parties involved and any injuries you incurred. The insurance company will request a copy of the police report when it is available as this will aid in the investigation.

In addition to taking an account of the crash, the representative will schedule a time for your vehicle to be inspected. An adjuster will come to the location of your car to write up an estimate for the necessary repairs.

Ask Questions About Coverage and Deductibles

Do you recall the details of your auto insurance coverage? Most of us pay our premiums but don’t think much about our policy until we get into a crash. Make sure to ask your insurance agent about your deductible so that you can plan financially for car repairs. Your deductible is the amount that you will owe before insurance covers the remainder. For instance, a $500 deductible means that you will owe $500 regardless of the total amount of repair needed for your car. If the other driver’s insurance company ultimately accepts fault for the crash, your deductible eventually will be returned to you.

In cases where the damage to your car is so great that it cannot be driven, you will need a rental car. Even if your vehicle incurs less damage, you will need one for the time it is at the body shop. Ask about your rental car coverage so that you stay within the limits of your policy and minimize additional cost. AAA members get exclusive savings on Hertz rentals.

Be Patient During the Claim Investigation

Once a car crash is reported, your insurance carrier will investigate to determine the nature of the crash and the severity of any damage to the individuals and vehicles involved. If there are differences between what you and the other party have reported, you may receive a call from the insurance company of the other driver. It can be stressful to recount the details of a crash repeatedly, so make sure to remain patient and calm so that you can accurately describe exactly what took place.

Track Your Insurance Claim Regularly

One of the most stressful parts of filing an auto insurance claim is waiting for it to be settled. Even the nicest rental car is no substitute for the comfort of your vehicle. Keep track of the progress on your claim, and stay in touch with those who are responsible for managing repairs. You will be back on the road in your own car faster if you answer questions promptly and remain active throughout the process.

Take Care of Your Injuries

In the aftermath of a crash, we often think about costly car repairs, but tending to injuries should be at the top of our to-do list. Keep up with appointments such as physical therapy, rest when advised and listen to your doctors. If any changes in your medical care are recommended, communicate these with your insurance carrier as well.

While safe driving can reduce the chance of a car crash, most of us will experience one at some point in our lives. Review your policy periodically, and keep these steps in mind so that filing an auto insurance claim can be as smooth as possible.

Still have questions about car insurance and how to file a claim? Contact a AAA insurance agent.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

The bitter cold, which is expected to deliver a hard freeze to oil-producing regions of the southwestern United States for the first time since 2022, has boosted crude oil prices amid a surge for home heating oil across the country and in Europe — which is facing a similar chilly forecast. Electricity demand is also expected to increase as millions crank their thermostats to cope. Overall, oil prices ended last week up about $2, and could rise further as temperatures plummet this week.

The rise in crude oil prices could begin to put pressure on the price of gasoline, but a sharp drop in gasoline demand and ballooning inventories are staving off significant hikes in our region — for now. Last week, domestic gasoline demand fell 9% to 8.1 million barrels a day, according to the Energy Information Administration. That’s in line with expectations for the post-holiday period. Meanwhile, domestic inventories grew by 7.7 million barrels, with Northeast supplies accounting for nearly 2 million barrels of the increase.

“If it weren’t for cratering demand and swelling inventories, gasoline prices could be on the upswing thanks to the impacts of severe cold,” said Jillian Young, Director of Public Affairs, AAA Northeast. “Oil and gas markets are watching for potential disruptions to production and supplies in southern areas of the United States unaccustomed to prolonged hard freezes.”

AAA Northeast’s Jan. 6 survey of fuel prices found the current national average up 4 cents from last week ($3.02), averaging $3.06 per gallon. Today’s national average price is 4 cents higher than a month ago ($3.02) and 2 cents lower than this day last year ($3.08).

State	Current Price*	One Week Ago	One Month Ago	One Year Ago
Connecticut	$3.02	$3.02	$3.05	$3.18
Massachusetts	$3.00	$3.02	$3.03	$3.18
New Jersey	$2.97	$2.91	$2.95	$3.08
New York	$3.12	$3.12	$3.15	$3.32
Rhode Island	$2.93	$2.95	$2.96	$3.06

*Prices as of Jan. 6, 2025

Today, Oklahoma and Mississippi have the lowest prices in the nation at $2.55 and $2.60, respectively.Hawaii and California hold the highest prices in the nation this week at $4.54 and $4.38, respectively.

The AAA Gas Prices website is your resource for up-to-date fuel price information. Search for average gas prices by Regular, Plus, Premium and Diesel on national and state levels, as well as metro areas.

The sober travel trend has reached every corner of the globe, from airlines serving mocktails to alcohol-free bars and dry retreats around the world. 

Booze-free travel is growing every year, especially among millennials and Generation Z, who are prioritizing travel without the hangover. Tour companies, hotels and brands are capitalizing on this by offering experiences that align with dry lifestyles.

Here are some of the latest travel trends and experiences in the alcohol-free travel realm.

Mocktail Mania

Hotel chains worldwide have embraced non-drinking activities with mocktail experiences and classes for sober travelers.

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AAA Three Diamond designated hotel Tempo by Hilton Times Square and other Tempo properties have a unique mocktail beverage program in partnership with Lyre’s, a zero-proof line of spirits. Halfway around the world, Jumeirah Olhahali Island Maldives offers an expert-guided, mixology master class with non-alcoholic spirits from Lyre’s (think zero-proof bourbon, whiskey, gin and rum).

Meanwhile, tour companies have expanded from pub crawls and wine tastings to mocktail classes and spirit-free tastings.

Custom Spirit-Free Hotel Offerings

Whether sober or sober curious, hotels will tailor your trip to accommodate your preferences. The newly opened Eriro in Ehrwald, Austria, is an off-the-grid haven with only nine suites. Before arriving, their team calls guests to confirm dietary requirements and beverage preferences and recommends regional and homemade non-alcoholic beverages. The culinary team even forages for fresh ingredients like pine needles and mountain herb syrups to create magical mocktails.

With the growing interest in alcohol alternatives, Hyatt has implemented the Zero Proof, Zero Judgement initiative. The program expanded its non-alcoholic menu items at hotel bars and restaurants around the U.S. The AAA Four Diamond designated Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall Boston takes it one step further by offering a Booze-free Boston package for sober travelers. The package comes with a gift basket of non-alcoholic canned cocktails and souvenirs, a map of nearby establishments with the best booze-free drink options and a special room service delivery of a non-alcoholic turndown cocktail and dessert.

Alcohol-Free Bars

In the last few years, alcohol-free bars and destinations have started to pop up throughout the United States and beyond, offering patrons a place to gather with friends without the buzz.

New York City is home to Hekate Cafe & Elixir Lounge, a sober bar and bottle shop that hosts events like tarot card readings. Across the nation in Hood River, Ore., the Wilderton Tasting Room is the country’s first alcohol-free tasting room and distillery.

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Meanwhile, Kansas City, Mo., is emerging as a destination for a sober vacation. Just a short drive from downtown, Wild Child in Shawnee is making waves with a focus on low and no-proof drinks, like its no-alcohol espresso martini and negroni. The bar even earned a spot on Bon Appetit’s list of the 11 best new bars of 2023. Mean Mule Distilling Co. is another hotspot in the area with a creative mocktail menu to provide an inclusive experience for those avoiding alcohol.

Water Tastings

Some restaurants and hotels have taken the trend further by offering water tastings. Non-alcoholic restaurant Shor in Los Angeles crafts innovative mocktails and has a unique water bar, featuring extravagant water bottles from France, Finland, Canada, Slovenia and Germany. They even have a $1,000 Swarovski crystal-encrusted bottle of Fillico Jewelry Bottle from Kobe, Japan, sourced from a natural spring.  

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AAA Four Diamond Epicurean Atlanta Autograph Collection offers a zero-proof, pour-of-the-month option for sober travelers. The hotel is also known for its vibrant culinary classes at Epicurean Theatre. A staple event each year is the World of Water in January, a tasting of some of the finest water from around the world with a certified water sommelier.

Sober Retreats

Skipping the booze at a wellness retreat is nothing new. However, the number of retreats catering to sober travelers is multiplying in the U.S. and abroad. The Art of Living Retreat Center is an alcohol-free oasis in Boone, N.C., offering various wellness programs. Its Ayurveda wellness cleanse and detox retreats gives visitors deep rest and rejuvenation with no aftereffects.

Aleenta Phuket, located on the Andaman Sea in Thailand, is a secluded getaway where individuals can enjoy travel without the influence of alcohol. Home to Ayurah Spa and Wellness Center, guests enjoy tailor-made holistic wellness programs with master therapists.

Zero-Proof Airplane and Minibar Options

The non-alcoholic beverage movement is taking off with airlines, too. Many airlines now offer an exciting array of virgin beverages (goodbye stale coffee and orange juice). JetBlue has added a craftmix strawberry mule mocktail and Athletic Brewing Co. non-alcoholic beer to its drink menu, Emirates Airlines advertises onboard mocktails, like a virgin mojito, and Qatar Airways’ variety includes a cranberry apple cooler.

Curious about your hotel’s mini fridge? Santo Pure, a property in Oia, Santorini, has a wellness ethos, and its suite minibars have beverages focusing on functional wellness with items like no-sugar kombucha, immunity shots and matcha tea beverages, among others. Yes, please!

Have you tried sober travel? Tell us what you think about traveling alcohol-free in the comments.

Plan your next vacation with a AAA travel advisor.

Just like the lions and leopards she observed in the wildlife reserves of Kenya, Sue Cordeira’s desire to travel remains untamed.

Until about three years ago, she had not been far from her Dartmouth, Mass., home. For the previous eight years she had cared for her paralyzed husband and travel was too difficult. When he died in February 2016, she wanted to get away. She started at her nearest AAA branch. From there, she was off to Italy two months later.

Next was the U.K., then Costa Rica, Africa, Japan, U.S. national parks and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade, all on tours she booked with AAA. One trip has led to another. She chose Costa Rica while on a tour of the U.K., because of a promotional video. She chose Africa while in Italy, because she saw another traveler’s photos. So far, the Kenyan safari has been her favorite.

She’s intent on seeing the world while she is still young – 54 years old.

“It’s important for people not to wait until retirement or until the kids are out of the house. Don’t wait until you’re too old to do it,” she said.

Some of the world’s most worthy destinations require physical endurance. She’s set out in the wee hours and settled in very late at night to spot exotic animals in Kenya, climbed steep terrain in Costa Rica and zip lined through its lush jungles.

She encourages others to follow her lead: “Go where you want to go. If it’s on your bucket list, just do it.”

Being Part of the Experience

Cordeira has danced with Masai women in Kenya, stood almost side-by-side with an elk at the Grand Canyon and had a conversation about the Red Hot Chili Peppers with an umbrella salesman in Japan.

“That, to me, was the little experience that made the trip more memorable,” she said.

She believes immersing oneself in the culture of a destination is the best way to travel, and the tours she’s booked through AAA give her ample opportunity to do it.

In Africa, she was a welcomed guest at a Masai village.

“They live in mud huts, but they’re proud to show you their homes,” she said. “We tend to think they have very little, but we all want the same thing – to be happy – and they’re happy living their lives the way they do.”

It was also in Kenya that she ate barracuda – “It tastes like swordfish” – and goat curry – “there’s a lot of Indian influence there.” She was sprayed with muddy water by a baby elephant and licked across the face by a giraffe.

In Japan, while touring the Matsumoto Castle, she met a 15-year-old Japanese girl (now 16) who wanted to practice writing English. She asked if she could write to Cordeira in the United States.

“Now, I have a pen pal in Japan,” Cordeira said. “We write to each other about once a month.”

Traveling Solo – Sort Of

Cordeira has set out to see the world on her own, but still appreciates the company that comes with a group tour.

She’s been a solo traveler on all seven tours she’s booked through AAA since April 2016.

“People on tours welcome you. There are always people who want to scoop you up and bring you with them,” Cordeira said. “It’s a safe way to travel if you’re alone. People, especially women, should not be afraid to go alone.”

Cordeira has kept in contact with a few people she’s met along the way – fellow travelers, tour guides and her Japanese pen pal.

She said that, as a solo traveler, she develops a relationship with the people running the tours more so than other travelers, which allows for more customized experiences.

To be fair, Cordeira has taken trips completely on her own, too. She had just returned from Seattle early last fall when I caught up with her.

On an unusually clear day at the Space Needle’s observation deck, she was able to see Mount Rainier, about 67 miles away.

She admired the brilliant displays at the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum on her own. She visited Pike Place Market and delighted in some of the city’s quirky landmarks, like the Gum Wall, the Fremont Troll and Waiting for the Interurban, to name a few.

If you don’t know what those are, you really should visit Seattle.

Volcanic Vineyards

A familiar aroma can have the amazing power to transport you to another time and place.

For Cordeira the scent of roses is linked to a vineyard at the base of Mount Vesuvius.

She’s seated outside. Before her, a tabletop of painted tiles is set with handcrafted pottery, and neat rows of grape vines form an expansive backdrop. Rose bushes at the end of each row bloom in earnest – a good sign for the coming harvest.

The roses gauge the quality of the crop, Cordeira said. “If the rose bush is dying, you know you have to do some adjustment to the soil, or else your grapes were going to die as well.”

The vineyard owner prepared a simple lunch of the freshest ingredients.

“Everything was from within that neighborhood,” Cordeira said. “The tomatoes for the sauce were from the guy down the street, the cheese was from the guy who had cows.”

Each dish was accompanied by a selection from the winery that is distinct for its grapes grown in the same ash that buried Pompeii in A.D. 79.

This is one of the lingering memories from Cordeira’s trip to Italy.

She cherished the close of each day, when she gathered with friends on a hotel balcony overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea for snacks and the transfixing glow the sunsets cast on the colorful buildings hugging the cliffside.

It’s All Ancient History

On the tour of Rome and the Amalfi Coast, Cordeira visited the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, Pompeii and other notable historic places, and in between savored many delicious meals.

She was awed by the ancient architecture. “We tend to think of living in our area, going to Boston, that the buildings are very old,” Cordiera said. “Here, we’re talking 250 years ago; in Italy, we’re talking 2,000 years.”

“It’s crazy. When you’re at Pompeii, and you’re walking the grounds, and you look down at the rock roads, you can see the ruts from 2,000 years ago when the chariots went through,” she said.

She admired her surroundings not only for the history but for the beauty: the exquisite architecture of basilicas built with different colors of marble, intricate mosaics made up of many tiny tiles and awe-inspiring paintings, sculptures and other art.

Happy Cows Make Mozzarella

Happy cows are hilarious. Just ask Cordeira. They also produce more milk.

Those were some insights she gathered during a visit to a mozzarella factory in Italy where the Italian Mediterranean buffalo are so well taken care of that they actually have a spa.

“It’s funny as heck the way they designed it,” she said. “It’s not like a spa we think of. They have these areas of hay like mattresses where the cows can lie down. They have these big roller brushes that constantly rotate, so you will see a cow go over and get a back rub from the brush.

“They’re not forced to be milked. They’re not forced to do anything,” she said. “The cows know where to go to be milked, but they go when they want to go.”

Now she knows the secret behind the mouthwatering mozzarella she savored during many meals in Italy, along with the fresh pasta and produce that made up every delectable dish.

To Live Like the Romans

Cordeira wishes she could bring more of Italy’s lifestyle to the United States.

Italy is beautiful not only for the remains of ancient civilization, ornate architecture, exquisite art, breathtaking vistas and delicious cuisine. Its people and way of life are beautiful as well.

For Cordiera, there was no better example than the piazzas she strolled through during down time.

“You have this expansive area with gorgeous marble fountains and people walking around having gelato, or a slice of pizza, or grabbing an espresso, or sitting out at a restaurant having lunch with friends,” she said. “I wish we had more spaces like that, where you go with a community and hang out.”

Or be by yourself amid it all – sitting at the edge of a fountain reading a book, or, again, savoring gelato.

“The gelato was fantastic, very fresh. If you got something like a peach gelato, you felt like you were eating a fresh peach,” Cordeira said. “Things can be just simply done there but taste delicious because of the fresh ingredients.”

It was the same for the pasta she enjoyed at many meals. One of her most memorable dining experiences was at a place she deemed “a little touristy,” with strolling opera singers and a performance stage.

Given three choices of pasta dishes, she chose clams in red sauce. “If it’s pasta and clams, then that’s probably what I’m going to get, because that’s what I like.”

It was followed by a cake for dessert and cookies brought to the table, “and, of course, there was wine with everything.”

Amazing Africa

When the sun sets in vivid reds, yellows, oranges and colors you can’t quite describe across a vast horizon untouched by humans – that’s nirvana.

When you’re at peace amid the cacophony of wild animals – the screech of monkeys, the trumpet of an elephant, the roar of a lion – that’s paradise.

When you first spot one of the magnificent creatures of the African plains, “it’s like nothing you know,” according to Cordeira.

“Your heart starts beating faster, and you take a deep breath,” she said. “To see that first elephant come into view, you say, ‘oh my gosh. I can’t believe I’m seeing this.’

“I’m not religious, but I found it to be a very spiritual vacation,” Cordeira said about the safari tour of Kenya she booked through AAA.

Over the course of 15 days, Cordeira and a few others switched accommodations often between various reserves, each with a unique habitat, some lush and others dry.

They set out in small safari vans almost every morning and every evening, when the animals were most active.

“You’re in the safari van and the top pops up. Sometimes an elephant would be just 15 feet away,” she said.

Each surrounding offered an opportunity to see a particular species. “There’s only one reserve where you are going to see Grevy’s zebra,” the largest and most threatened of three types, she said.

No matter where they stayed, they were amid exotic animals. “It wasn’t unusual to see monkeys outside your door, baboons, warthogs … all running around. I’m sitting on my porch watching all of this going on.”

These are just some of the precious moments Cordeira will never forget.

Getting Ready for Safari

Packing was the hardest thing Cordeira had to do for her Kenyan safari vacation.

“We were allowed to bring only a 35-pound duffle bag,” said the AAA member from Dartmouth. “I suggest bringing sneakers or a comfortable pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty – or even throwing away. I brought five outfits and hand-washed them as we went along.”

She needed clean clothes pretty often.

At the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage in Kenya, where she could touch elephant calves as they were bottle-fed, she underwent an “elephant baptism,” when she was doused with muddy water thrown from one animal’s trunk. She accepted it with the faithfulness of a true animal lover.

Animal Encounters

What was it like to pet an elephant? Kind of like petting a baked potato, according to Cordeira. That’s how she described the feel of their gray, dry, rough skin.

She saw elephants in their natural environments, too.

“I was amazed at how silent they are. For as big as an elephant is, the way they walk, they can sneak up on you,” she said.

Cordeira and the small group she was with on an African safari tour traveled in search of wildlife and reveled in their discoveries. With the help of expert guides with keen eyes, they spotted the continent’s elusive Big Five – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and cape buffalo – within the first three days of the trip.

When she heard a male lion’s roar as its pride settled for the night, “you could feel it in your chest.”

And, at a giraffe sanctuary, where she was able to feed the “majestic” creatures, one bent its long neck toward her and licked her across the face.

“I kissed a giraffe – and I liked it,” she joked.

Polite and Tidy in Tokyo

Cordeira has been to quite a few cities around the world in recent years – Rome, Paris, London, Nairobi and Seattle, to name just a few. Although each was beautifully unique, some things were the same: litter, unpleasant odors and loud, busy people with little regard for those around them.

That’s why, when she first stepped onto the streets of Tokyo, she was struck by how clean the city was, and its people so polite.

“You do not see a cigarette butt or gum on any street or sidewalk,” the AAA member from Dartmouth, Mass., said. “It’s part of the culture. They consider throwing trash on the ground offensive. … For as busy a place as it is, it’s not like being in New York City or Boston or any other city, because you don’t hear the blaring traffic, horns beeping, drivers swearing at other drivers … it’s just an incredibly polite society.”

It was the same on every stop she made during a 15-day tour of Japan from Tokyo to Kyoto. It was April, she could walk amid the famously gorgeous cherry blossoms, but that was a side attraction to many wonderful cultural experiences.

In Tokyo, she visited the geisha district and the ancient and architecturally stunning temple Senso-ji, the Imperial Palace and the Kokyo Gaien National Gardens. She was an honored guest at a Chado Tea Ceremony, which she considers one of the best parts of the trip.

“The host of the ceremony chooses the artwork he wants to display based on who’s coming to visit. He chooses the bowls he will use to prepare the tea, depending on who’s coming. He chooses the sweets that are going to be served based on the time of year,” Cordeira said, noting that it was spring, so everything was light and refreshing. “They want to make sure you have a beautiful experience. It’s done with a lot of thoughtfulness, a lot of mindfulness.”

It was far from the only beautiful experience she had in Japan.

Other highlights included the culturally fascinating fish markets, the impressive face of Mount Fuji, and most of all, the food. No matter where she went, no matter what she ate – from sushi to skewered chicken and Hida beef – the food was carefully prepared and artfully presented.

“Oh my god, the food – that was the best part of the vacation,” she said.

A Trip to Suit Her Tastes

If you’re one of those people who likes to take pictures of your food, you’d be very happy in Japan.

Cordeira’s scrapbook of her vacation there last March is filled with such photos.

“Anything you get, I don’t care which restaurant you go to, it’s beautifully prepared and beautifully presented,” she said. “It looked like artwork. You don’t want to eat it – it looks so beautiful.”

But she did eat, and she savored every delicious bite.

She was already a fan of sushi and sashimi when she booked the trip with AAA, and those dishes lived up to her expectations. Other regional specialties that she sampled on a tour from Tokyo to Kyoto were unexpected.

“One night we were in Hiroshima, and they have these little okonomiyaki places all over the place. It’s basically these pancake-like things. They put cabbage in it and simple ingredients on top of it. They put this special okonomiyaki sauce, and it’s done on one of those big grills that everybody sits around, and they cook it there for you.”

In Takayama, she sampled the prized Hida beef paired with a traditional rice wine. And in Kyoto, she dined at a traditional yakitori resaurant.

“Yakitori is grilled chicken, but for the most part it’s anything that’s on a skewer,” Cordeira said. “We had family style, and they just kept bringing stuff to the table … everything from chicken thighs, chicken breasts, chicken livers … any part of a chicken you could imagine was presented to us in some way or form.”

She tried it all.

“I enjoy different types of food,” Cordeira said. “There were people who didn’t want to try anything they’d never had before, which to me is so strange. If you’re going on vacation, you want to try the food of the culture that you’re in.”

In the Market for Umbrellas

Imagine a vacation so incredible that a news crew comes out to film it.

That actually happened to Cordeira.

The day that her tour group was to tour Mount Fuji turned out to be pretty special. A thick fog around the upper stations of Japan’s tallest mountain and holy site had dissipated to reveal a breathtaking view not seen in a long while.

“It was a particularly clear day, and there was just a beautiful view of the mountains. The news crews were there in the morning, so they could put it on the afternoon news,” Cordeira said.

It was an experience she will never forget, but it was far from the most impressive. At that point, she had already been to notable sites like the Imperial Palace and took in the amazing view from Tokyo Tower. She had been a guest at a traditional tea ceremony and savored the fresh and artfully prepared fish dishes one expects.

After all that, and still more to come, one thing that fascinated Cordeira the most was simply Japan’s open-air markets. She was particularly impressed by the Omicho Market, the country’s largest, with more than 200 stalls, and oldest, dating to the 1700s.

“I really enjoyed the fish markets, just to see the variety of things that people get. I just think they’re cool,” she said. “The main focus is on fish and fresh vegetables. They have other things, but the majority of it is the fish from the Sea of Japan.”

Among the other things for sale were the three umbrellas Cordeira purchased from a salesman with whom she shared an affinity for The Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Colorful Costa Rica

They may call it a zip line “tour,” but Cordeira didn’t see much while gliding through the trees in Costa Rica – only because her eyes were closed most of the time as she held on for dear life.

She laughs about it now.

Standing on solid ground in the lush jungle areas was enough to gain a whole new perspective of the world.

When she booked the nine-day trip with AAA, Cordeira was looking for something unlike anything she’d ever done. Costa Rica delivered.

“You’re in a cloud forest, and you go to coffee plantations. There’s cruising on a river for a good part of the day, a beautiful beach, zip lining in a cloud forest … those kinds of things were all brand new for me,” she said.

She didn’t need a bird’s-eye view to notice the striking colors of the many tropical birds that surrounded her. Although she had some help from her tour manager.

“He knew his birds. He was pointing out all kinds. He knew flowers and plants and birds. He was super good with all of that kind of stuff,” Cordeira said.

There were monkeys, iguanas and caimans, too.

“There were lots of little things hanging out in the jungle, and the plants were weird. You’d have this big tree, and then hanging from the tree were little vines and then on the vine was another little plant that only lived on those vines. So, each tree would almost have its own little ecosystem going on,” she said.

“If I was just walking through that on my own, I wouldn’t notice, but having a tour manager who is from the area and loves his country and loves nature … that made it pretty neat.”

Start checking off your travel bucket list! Book your next trip with a AAA travel advisor.

1.

New Zealand: The land of the Kiwis is almost synonymous with adventure. The world’s first zorbing site – where you roll down a hill inside a giant, transparent plastic ball – is in Rotorua, and the world’s first permanent bungee jump operation is at the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge near Queenstown. The hiking and kayaking are world-class, too.

2.

Peru: Machu Picchu is on many bucket lists, for the ancient Incan citadel evokes a feeling of awe and mystery, especially when shrouded by the Andean mist. With popularity, however, comes hordes of tourists. To find sanctuary from the crowds, head to the oasis of Ica, where sandboarding the surrounding dunes can be just as awesome.

3.

India: Culinary adventures in India, may they be taking cooking classes or exploring food markets, differ by region. Rajasthani cuisine, in the north, includes the pairing of spiced lentil soup and baked wheat rolls, known as dal bati, while crispy, savory dosas (pancakes) are common in the south. In India, your best traveling companions are your taste buds.

4.

U.S. National Parks: There are myriad adventures across all 84 million combined acres of the U.S. national parks. As a showcase of geological diversity, there’s everything from scuba diving down the underwater kelp forests of the Channel Islands to climbing the massive rocks of Yosemite. Not that active? Watching Yellowstone’s Old Faithful erupt can be thrilling, too.

5.

Mongolia: Genghis Khan went down in history as the founder of the largest land empire in the world. In the 13th century, however, the great leader couldn’t survey his grand domain without a horse. Today, tourists can follow in his hoofprints on a horseback riding tour in the highlands of Mongolia, once part of his great Mongol Empire.

6.

The Galapagos: Merely being in the Galapagos is special; it’s where Charles Darwin conjured up the theory of evolution after observing the unique variations in the animals on each of the islands. Exploring leads you to blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and dramatic landscapes – and even the opportunity to scuba dive in between them, sometimes with hammerhead sharks.

7.

Turkey: If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in a cave, look to Cappadocia, where cave hotels are built into the nooks of fairy-tale-like chimney rock formations, characteristic of this dry, Turkish region. To fly through the enchanted land, book one of the many hot air balloons that soar above in the mornings.

8.

China: With its 1.3 billion people, China is a massive country to explore. If you’re not really a people person, you might want to zone in on pandas instead. At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, you can observe the famed Chinese bears of all ages, and if you’re lucky, perhaps even a newborn.

9.

The Amazon: The Amazon rainforest may be known for its monkeys, snakes and occasional sloths, but the river that makes this jungle fertile is home to river dolphins – pink ones. You might catch a glimpse of them on a riverboat or on a canoeing excursion from one of dozens of ecolodges along the mighty river in Peru and Brazil.

10.

St. Kitts and Nevis: Mini speedboats that accommodate two people are easy enough to zip around St. Kitts’ southeast peninsula. Ride to a secluded snorkeling spot for an underwater gander of the tropical fish – or simply throw in the towel on adventures, lay it out on the beach and just soak in the Caribbean scenery.

Have you found adventure around the world? Tell us in the comments.

Book your next vacation with a AAA travel advisor.

The beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers who want to tour Asia off the beaten path.

Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka’s dominance in tea production made it a target for colonization. Because of its Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial history and its location near India, Sri Lanka is a cultural crossroads. You can experience millennia of history and culture at Sri Lanka’s top 10 sights.

Tour Asia: The Top 10 in Sri Lanka

1. Sigiriya

In the 400s King Kasyapa selected this 660-foot tall rock for the site of his capital. He built his palace atop the massive natural formation and adorned it with frescoes, many of which have since disappeared. Visitors can still see the larger-than-life-sized lion paws that guard the palace’s entrance from which Sigiriya gets its name, meaning “lion rock.” From the top of the palace you’ll be able to see some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world and the backdrop for Duran Duran’s video for “Save A Prayer.”

2. Galle

The seaside city of Galle is known for its historic fort and melange of cultures. Remainders of the Portuguese colonial influence can be seen in the architecture throughout Galle’s 16th-century fortress, while the Dutch influence remains in the street names that have remained unchanged since the late 18th century. While you’re in Galle you can watch brave souls cliff dive from the citadel’s Flag Rock, learn about local history at the Marine Archeological Museum and witness cultures cross at the Dutch Reformed Church.

3. Yala National Park

Yala National Park’s wildlife is unlike that of other Asia destinations. In addition to having one of the highest population densities of leopards in the world, Yala National Park is home to 215 bird species and 44 mammal species including elephants and bears. The park is also the site of the Sithulpahuwa and Magul Vihara ancient Buddhist monasteries.

4. Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa became Sri Lanka’s second royal capital in the late 10th century after the first, Anuradhapura, was pillaged. What remains of the medieval capital is a compact complex of well-preserved ruins that are easy to explore by bike. Highlights include the Royal Palace ruins, the Quadrangle (the epicenter of Polonnaruwa’s archaeological sites) and Gal Vihara, an iconic collection of larger-than-life-sized Buddha carvings.

5. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

Adam’s Peak is a holy site of pilgrimage for Buddhists, Hindus, Christians and Muslims. The Sri Pada (sacred footprint) rock formation atop this formidable mountain is said to be Buddha’s footprint by Buddhists, Shiva’s footprint by Hindus, and Adam’s footprint by Christians and Muslims. Visitors of all faith traditions, however, will agree that catching a sunrise from Adam’s Peak is worth the trek up 5,000 steps and will be a memory you will never forget long after you tour Asia.

6. Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

Pilgrims and tourists alike come to the Temple of the Tooth (also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa) to visit the relic of Buddha’s tooth, from which this temple gets its name. When Sri Lanka was a kingdom, it was said that whoever was in possession of this tooth was in control of the kingdom. Although Buddha’s tooth is tucked away safely inside a series of nesting caskets, a visit to the temple is worthwhile for its spectacular architecture. While you’re already on the palace grounds of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, visit the palace and its museums.

7. Colombo

Although Sri Lanka is full of ancient wonders, a visit to this island nation would be  incomplete without experiencing modern Sri Lanka. While neighboring suburban Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is Sri Lanka’s legislative capital, Colombo is Sri Lanka’s largest city and commercial capital.

There is much to be enjoyed and explored in Colombo. Hedonists can soak up the sun at the city’s beaches and stroll along Galle Face Green, a seaside park where locals fly kites and watch life go by. Culture lovers can learn about Sri Lanka’s colonial history at the Colombo National Museum and Dutch Museum. Whatever your travel style, Colombo will have something for you.

8. Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple has been a Buddhist pilgrimage site for the last 22 centuries. The temple’s collection of 150 Buddha statues, vibrant murals and statues of Sri Lankan royalty has been a work in progress for much of that time as kings have been contributing artwork to the caves from the 1st century BC until the 20th century CE. Today visitors can enjoy the magnificent collection in the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka.

9. Pinnawala elephant orphanage

No Asia vacation is complete without encountering the incredible indigenous wildlife. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is the place to do just that in Sri Lanka. The orphanage opened in 1975 after modern development created habitat loss for Sri Lanka’s elephant population. Because elephant calves rely on their mothers for food for the first five years of their lives, the orphaned elephants that come to Pinnawala are hand-reared. Visitors can watch these majestic animals’ daily care routines like milk and fruit feedings and bath time in the river.

10. Tea plantations

During colonial times Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon, which is now synonymous with some of the world’s finest teas. Today Sri Lanka is the world’s fourth largest producer of teas, and tea production is a great source of employment for the country. While Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa province is best known for its tea production, tea plantations can be found all over the country. Find a tea plantation to tour to discover the authentic flavor of Ceylon tea.

Have you been to Sri Lanka? Let us know what sites you recommend in the comments below.

Book your Sri Lanka getaway with a AAA travel advisor.

I’d hiked on a glacier before – but this time was different. As I dug my spikes into glistening Windex-blue ice and stared at a massive crevice that a yeti would love to call home, I felt as small as the frozen crystals beneath my feet yet as large as the vast blue Argentine sky above my head. This is why people climb mountains, I thought.

I was with a group of fellow adventure-seekers on the Perito Moreno Glacier near El Calafate in Argentina. Every moment on our 10-day hiking tour had been spectacular. Just days before, we’d trekked up a steep ridge to one of the most serene lakes imaginable. Its glacier-fed water was a surreal milky blue, and nothing but an occasional wind gust and a lone Andean condor circling overhead interrupted the stillness.

Not so at Perito Moreno, where we scrambled down from our icy perch and walked along the pebbly moraine to a viewing platform. There, right in front of us – like an Imax 3D movie come to life – large chunks of azure ice creaked and cracked and plummeted with a thunderous rumble into Lago Argentino below. More, please!

Heavenly Torres del Paine

When we crossed the border into Chilean Patagonia, I discovered that you don’t need a close encounter with a calving glacier to be wowed. There, as dawn painted Lake Pehoe in Torres del Paine National Park in luminous shades of purple and mauve, I decided that I’d finally found the most beautiful place on earth.

I could have stared at that view of the Paine massif from the Explora Lodge forever. And hiking there, amid herds of grazing guanacos and beneath skies filled with the wispiest, day-dreamiest of clouds, I realized that Patagonia has a pure and visceral beauty that defies description. It needs to be experienced.

A River of Amazement in the Peruvian Amazon

From feeling this close to heaven to swatting mosquitoes in the rainforests of Peru, my next South American adventure was also a game changer. I’d feared I would hate the jungle and all the creepy, crawly, potentially lethal things that live there: spiders on steroids, poisonous tree frogs, giant anacondas and dagger-toothed piranhas.

But there I was, standing in a small skiff with a fishing pole, casting a line into murky green water. My guide, Roger – one of several aboard Aria Amazon, a 32-passenger river boat operated by Aqua Expeditions – assured me that he would handle whatever happened next. I felt a tug and reflexively jerked my pole upward, startled as my catch flew through the air, thrashing from the hook, its jaw lined with menacing teeth.

I’d just caught my first piranha.

Roger grabbed my catch and asked if I wanted a photo with it. I nodded yes, handed him my phone, gingerly grabbed the line and dangled one of the Amazon’s fiercest predators just inches from my face. As nervous dread welled in my chest, Roger smiled and said, “Queso” – and I smiled back, giggling at the craziness of it all.

The Sunset to End All Sunsets

There were dozens of reasons to smile on this four-day cruise from Iquitos through the isolated tributaries of the Amazon: pink river dolphins with long pointy noses swimming alongside our ship, sleepy three-toed sloths and adorable Capuchin monkeys perched like acrobats on tree branches, the laughter of indigenous children playing near the riverbanks.

And then there were the sunsets.

The one on our final evening just might be my favorite ever. Roger had navigated our skiff to a spot where a patchwork of lavender-flowered lily pads carpeted parts of the river as if painted by Claude Monet. He popped open a bottle of bubbly and we clinked glasses as the dusky pink-and-tangerine sky was reflected in the mirror-like water. Piranhas and mosquitoes be damned – this was perfection.

Have you traveled to South America? Tell about your trip in the comments!

Plan your next world getaway with a AAA travel advisor.

To be honest, it’s fairly thrilling to roll into Chernobyl’s Exclusion Zone. Having ridden north from Kiev in a minibus over a two-lane road, we arrive at a checkpoint.

Authorities examine our passports, then admit us into an area that encompasses some 1,000 square miles, set 30 miles away from Chernobyl Power Plant’s destroyed reactor four. Inside stands the husks and hulks of some 200 former villages and towns, which now feel like a post-apocalyptic place. In all, about 200,000 people were evacuated.

“And no one will ever live here again,” our guide Anastasia, clad in fatigues, tells us.

Tours to this disaster site have never been more popular, with HBO’s hit miniseries “Chernobyl” putting the place back on the map – and boosting visitor numbers dramatically. Local tour operators, who typically run one-day tours to the site (which sits about 75 miles north of Kiev) are reporting a significant bump in bookings, increasing some 30-40% since the show started airing. Tours cost about $100 and usually include a simple lunch in a local canteen.

A Different Sort of Day Trip

The background: on April 26, 1986 an accident during a test on reactor four at a nuclear power plant sparked a fire and a meltdown, releasing unprecedented amounts of radioactive material. Soviet authorities eventually evacuated everyone within the Exclusion Zone. A fallout cloud drifted across Europe and between the initial trauma and continuing effects of radiation, thousands died (how many, exactly, is subject to debate).

My visit, which predated the television series, began in Kiev’s Independence Square where I joined a group of about a dozen people for the two-hour drive north. I was in the country to check it out as a tourism destination: Ukraine’s capital city sports a soaring skyline, interesting museums, monument-filled parks and restaurants that serve the best perogies, vodka and chicken Kiev in Eastern Europe. And from the capital many visitors are now adding a trip to Chernobyl to their itineraries.

Vincent Rees, who owns Cobblestone Freeway, a tour company based in Canada and Ukraine, says his phone has been ringing off the hook since the TV series started airing. Although he admits that a lot of those calls have been from journalists like me. But when it’s guests calling to book a trip, many wonder, is it safe to visit Chernobyl? “The radiation question – that’s always the first thing people ask,” he said. Experts seem to agree that in most spots, including all places on tour itineraries, the radiation has dropped to safe levels. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky just announced plans to turn Chernobyl into an official tourist attraction, a move likely to draw more visitors to the area.

But others aren’t so sure. Some question the ethics of visiting the site of the world’s worst nuclear disaster, where so many died and where the course of so many lives was altered.

‘Annoyance, Fear and Grief’

As the minibus passes deeper into the Exclusion Zone, which runs along the northern border with Belarus, guides give a list of fairly commonsense rules: Don’t eat any plants or drink from water sources, and avoid sitting on the ground. We stop at reactor four, now enclosed in a protective dome, taking photos in front of it. In the wake of the show’s airing, social media influencers have descended on the site, in some cases taking inappropriate photos­ – including modelesque selfies – in front of hollowed out buildings and abandoned fun parks. It all prompted Craig Mazin, creator and executive producer of the HBO show, to ask people to “please remember that a terrible tragedy occurred there. Comport yourselves with respect for all who suffered and sacrificed.”

On my tour, we proceed through the sites with a mixture of awe and horror. The Ukrainians I spoke with while traveling in the country ranged from ambivalence to anger about the accident. Because it occurred during the Soviet Union era, a sense of blame persists. (Russians have expressed displeasure at their depiction in the HBO series, and plans are underway to make their own version.) And while some would prefer not to shine a light on it, some Ukrainians told me that they were pleased Chernobyl tours were helping produce a bump in tourism.

“Most of us feel resentment, annoyance, fear and grief,” Tanya Bakbardina, a client manager with Cobblestone Freeway, tells me in an interview after my visit. “It’s because this catastrophe affected the life and health of not only those who caught this tragedy or was an eyewitness, but also those who were born after 1986.”

Bakbardina adds that the feelings tend to split down age-based lines. For older generations, some of whom have suffered ongoing health problems, the anger still boils. (She admits that tour companies offering itineraries to Chernobyl sometimes take some heat from these Ukrainians.) But young people in the country – like the tourists who visit – are attracted to Chernobyl by their curiosity, detached by time from the actual event. “In this, they see romance, and dangers pleasantly tickle their nerves,” she said.

Hope and Renewal

After the reactor we have a look at the “red forest,” a stretch of radiation-scorched woodland. As we enter Pripyat – a purpose-built city to house workers at the nuclear plant, which was once home to some 50,000 people – it feels like a city of ghosts. We wind through an amusement park now frozen in time, grass curling up through cracks between the bumper cars, a yellow Ferris wheel – now an icon of the town – rusted and perpetually halted.

We pass restaurants, hotels, supermarkets and restaurants. Their hollow-eyed windows all staring at us, black and empty, then proceed through the Palace of Culture. The wooden floors of its once-fine gymnasium now wrecked, the pool emptied out. It’s all sad, but – more than that – eerie, as if you can still hear just the slightest whisper of the vibrant life that once surged through this place.

We finish by climbing to the top of a 15-story apartment building and walking around on the roof, with sweeping views of the destruction: a forest, sprouting all throughout the city, returning it all to nature, and the phantom of reactor four on the horizon. It’s all very green, and very melancholy.

But for Tanya Bakbardina, this view inspires hope.

“One lesson, for me, is that nature will survive even after the apocalypse,” she tells me later, adding that Ukraine continues to face a choice with how to deal with the aftermath of Chernobyl. “The Zone has two ways – to be forgotten or to be famous,” she said. “We chose the second way – the preservation of the memory of the heroes, whose action or inaction saved the world.”

Would you visit Chernobyl? Tell us in the comments. 

If you want to learn more about a place, try the food; to get acquainted with its soul, get cooking.

Food is a direct line to the roots of wherever you are – figuratively, through recipes, traditions and community, and literally pulled from the soil beneath your feet. While you can always go to a museum or take a walking tour, cooking is a personal way to absorb the local culture of any place you are visiting.

Discover our Northeast corner of the country in a tasty new way with a culinary vacation or daytrip at local cooking schools and hotels.

Starting With the Man in the Mirror

In the hill country of Peru, New York, chef Curtiss Hemm teaches on the grounds of his 350-acre farm at the Carriage House Cooking School and leads regular cooking demos for both hotel guests and the public at the AAA Four Diamond Rated Mirror Lake Inn in Lake Placid.

The former Dean of Culinary Arts at the New England Culinary Institute taught thousands of professional chefs in his career but has shifted his focus to a different crowd. “I want to make someone a better cook at home. That is my sole goal in doing this,” Hemm said. “The things that excite me aren’t what you find in restaurants but what you find in people’s homes and what people celebrate.”

Whether it’s showcasing homestyle Indian cuisine, steakhouse classics, artisan pizza or holiday cooking, Hemm stays true to his mantra that everything should be accessible, actionable and relevant to the home cook, while celebrating the edible landscape of the region whenever possible.

Baker’s Paradise

Inviting you into its quaint cottage with the smell of freshly baking bread, Brot Bakehouse School and Kitchen in Fairfax, Vermont, could persuade anyone into a life surrounded by croissants and pumpernickel. Luckily, baker and owner Heike Meyer is happy to share a slice of that life and lots of good bread with you.

Originally from Germany (“brot” is German for bread), Meyer traveled and baked around the world to hone her craft before landing in the Green Mountain State. Her bread and pastry classes are “tremendously” influenced by the landscape, she said, and highlight flavor through organic and local grains and natural starter cultures.

“Products we can source locally – and that make sense to source locally – are being used. I feel a much greater connection to the land that’s around us than I ever did growing up in northern Germany or living in New York City,” Meyer emphasizes.

Hotel Vermont partners with Brot Bakehouse for culinary vacations throughout the year, including a package that gets you a spot in the annual Brotfest workshop, a “sensory tasting experience” held every August that showcases sourdough and community food purveyors.

Vermont is also home to the King Arthur Flour Baking School, where Meyer picked up some of her skills and you can, too.

For Those About to Cook (We Salute You)

You don’t have to be professionally trained to play sous chef beside the culinary team at AAA Five Diamond Rated Ocean House. The Rhode Island resort’s Center for Wine & Culinary Arts has regular classes, events and activities inspired by “New England’s rich cultural history, Rhode Island’s premier seafaring history and [the resort’s] unique geographic location,” chef Timothy Meyers said.

Vino fans love the twice-yearly Wine Camp Weekend where participants tour Jonathan Edwards Winery, meet and dine with a winemaker, and custom blend and label a case of wine to take home.

Farther up north in Maine, the Make Me a Chef! package at Meadowmere Resort is for bourgeoning gourmands who also enjoy a bit of R&R. Popular with couples and multi-generational groups of families and friends, guests enjoy an interactive dinner with the resort’s chef, a cooking class at nearby Stonewall Kitchen Cooking School and a massage at the spa. Available every weekend outside of July and August.

Go Your Own Way

Build a personalized culinary itinerary with a visit to one of the world-class cooking schools in our area. The Culinary Institute of America provides a variety of public cooking classes in New York’s Hudson Valley region. And Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street Cooking School in Boston – at the home of Milk Street magazine, TV and radio show – will have you feeling like a true test-kitchen cook.

As any food lover will tell you, to make a meal is to create a memory, and recipes are the best souvenirs. Whether you are serious about cooking or just want to try something different, a cooking class will leave you with new skills, new memories and newfound appreciation for your destination.

More Nearby Culinary Vacations and Experiences

The Essex – Cook Academy
Burlington, VT

With two on-site restaurants, cooking classes and an organic garden for fresh ingredients, good food is at the core of every stay at The Essex. At the Cook Academy, classes are kept small for personalized, hands-on instruction with the talented and supportive staff of chefs. Themes range from cooking with Vermont beer to a New Orleans-inspired feast.

Four Seasons Boston – Kid’s Cookie Making Class

Every Saturday afternoon, kids of in-house guests are invited to the pastry kitchen for a complimentary cookie making class. The cookies are delivered to the child’s guest room later in the evening for a sweet snack the whole family can share – that’s AAA Five Diamond Rated service at its best! Private cooking classes can be arranged for groups through the hotel’s events department.

White Barn Inn – Private Cooking Classes
Kennebunkport, Maine

Take a private class with the AAA Four Diamond Rated hotel’s acclaimed executive chef and kitchen brigade. A range of themed culinary activities are also available; get the full Maine lobstering experience from boat-to-table, learn how to make a proper cocktail with the hotel’s head mixologist or get your hands dirty with a cooking class preceded by a visit to nearby Finklepod Farm.

The Manor at Golden Pond – Epicurean Escapade
Holderness, NH

Spend a full weekend cooking with the pros at the Manor at Golden Pond. Included with lodging, you get breakfast, dinner, afternoon tea and cooking school for every day of your stay. Hope you’re hungry!

Have you ever taken a cooking class, been on a culinary vacation or went somewhere just for the food? Tell us about it in the comments. 

There’s no avoiding it: winter is coming. Soon it will be time for scarves and gloves, snow shovels and ice scrapers, snow tires and school delays. Maybe you’re looking to escape the winter weather and trade it in for a warmer climate. Or maybe you’re thinking “Bring it on!” and can’t wait for the cold temps and snowy days to arrive. Either way, when you’re ready to plan your vacation, we’ve got just the destination for you.

Love waking up to a fresh coat of snow? Check out these cold weather retreats.

Canada

Montreal is a great option. Here you’ll find a plethora of awesome restaurants and museums, not to mention winter festivals like Montreal en Lumiere, a city-wide event filled with music, food and art that runs from Feb. 20 through March 1 next year. There’s also plenty of ice skating to be found.

Additionally, Quebec City, with its old-world European stylings, offers plenty of chilly charm in the winter months. Be sure not to miss the city’s famous toboggan run!

Ice Hotels

What could possibly be cooler (pun intended) than staying overnight in a hotel made completely from ice? Check out Quebec City’s Hotel de Glace, where guests can cozy up in sleeping bags in themed suites; some even have fireplaces! There’s a spa and outdoor sauna for when you’re ready to warm up after a chilly night.

Those looking for a European option should head to Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden, where guests can book individually unique suites highlighting artist-carved ice sculptures and enjoy activities like snowmobiling and dog sled tours.

European Christmas Markets

Markets throughout Europe have perfected the magic of Christmas and there’s no better way to explore them than through a river cruise. AmaWaterways has a variety of tours, including visits to Budapest’s market, where all items are handcrafted. Or head to Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt, where shopping is supplemented by sparkling decorations and choir singers. U River Cruises also offers great options, including a “Dashing Through the Danube” tour that stops off at multiple markets along the river.

Alternatively, if you’re dying to escape the cold and snow, there are plenty of warm destinations just begging to be visited.

Caribbean Destinations

There’s no better place to soak up the sun and escape the cold than on a soft sand beach in the Caribbean islands. Cruises are a great option; check out Princess Cruises for a variety of destinations and ships, including the brand-spanking-new Sky Princess, which sets sail this winter to destinations in the eastern Caribbean including Antigua, Turks and Caicos and Puerto Rico.

Looking to stay in the North Atlantic for a shorter trip? Celebrity Cruises offers quick jaunts to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale throughout the winter.

Hawaii

Want to get as far away from the cold of the Northeast as possible, yet still stay in the U.S.? Head to Hawaii, where you can relax on sandy beaches or enjoy activities like surfing and hiking. Hit multiple islands with Norwegian Cruise Line while enjoying roomy suites with balconies.

Africa

Africa beckons with not only warmer weather, but also with promises of adventure, culture and nature. Speak to a AAA travel advisor about small group tours to many of the continent’s desired destinations. You might find yourself on safari in Kenya, learning about ancient history in Egypt or exploring spice markets and traveling via camel in Morocco.

Chart your own (temperate) course with AAA Travel.

“I think I realized what Marrakech reminds me of.”

“What’s that?”

“The fragrance section of a department store, but as an entire city.”

I uttered this to my traveling companion, my girlfriend Sheila, as we walked through Marrakech’s Jemaa El-Fna square. Like many travelers, we had been drawn to Morocco after seeing pictures on social media that evoked the exotic image of Lawrence of Arabia.

Our itinerary included stops in Marrakech, the leather tanneries of Fez, a night under the stars in the Sahara, strolling through the cerulean buildings of Chefchaouen, and – of course – storied Casablanca.

The Medina Maze

It was our first visit to Morocco, and we decided to make Marrakech our first stop. We planned to stay in traditional riad accommodations during our travels. Riads, traditional homes with many rooms and a central courtyard, are typically located in a medina, or old town. Although medinas evoke a feeling of history and authenticity, they’re extremely confusing to navigate. Lack of posted street signs or numbers – as well as twists and turns and numerous dead ends – makes it almost certain that visitors will lose their bearings at some point.

The payoff for all this directional hassle is an accommodation experience unlike any you’ve ever experienced. We were greeted in Marrakech by our host Zuhair, who, after ushering us in, presented us with a platter of olives, bread, nuts and the ever-present elixir of mint tea.

Riad hosts can be some of the best resources during a stay in Morocco, helping you find authentic activities and experiences, hiring trustworthy drivers to shuttle you around the sites, and finding a safe place for you to park a rental car overnight. In Fez, our host actually walked us to the tanneries and got us inside to one of the best viewing platforms, which we likely wouldn’t have been able to do without him.

The trade-off to the medina’s authentic experience is the abundance of people trying to separate you from your money in less-than-legitimate methods. Luckily, we were prepared, and by the end of our trip, they were more of an annoyance than anything else.

Ports, Camels and Wine

After the colorful Marrakech, we ventured out of the big cities looking for activities that would give us a glimpse into Moroccans’ daily lives. Our adventures included a day trip to the quiet port city of Essaouira, a cooking class where we prepared a traditional tagine, and discussing Berber culture over a fire after a Saharan camel ride.

We also ventured to Domaine De La Zouina, one of the few wineries in Morocco. In addition to enjoying a tasting and learning about wine production with our host, we discussed the challenges of working in the wine industry in a predominantly Muslim country. We also learned about topics ranging from politics to health care, which gave us so much insight about the inner workings of Morocco society.

Morocco is a destination that demands patience and an awareness of your surroundings from the first-time visitor. But it also offers some of the richest experiences and the most welcoming people if you’re willing to go out and find them.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to make myself some mint tea.

Contact a AAA travel agent to start planning your Morocco trip.

Massachusetts-based travel writer Chris Caswell and girlfriend Sheila travel the world and share their adventures on their blog. 

If you’ve ever dreamed of spending time in a foreign city, but didn’t want to do it alone, there are several ways to blaze a solo trail while making friends (and learning a thing or two) along the way.

Many people who choose to travel by themselves book guided tours or cruises to socialize while sojourning. But a lesser-known tactic and one of my favorite solo travel tips for connecting with fellow tourists – signing up for a short language, cooking or exercise class – is another opportunity to enrich your journey. Not only is it a great way to anchor your stay, but you’ll learn about a culture first-hand, rather than gathering tidbits of wanderlust wisdom along the way.

Native Tongue

Language classes aren’t only fun, but can prove invaluable in navigating the rest of your journey. And you don’t need to be a linguist to go –amateurs welcome and wanted!

I’ve done several ‘language stays’ over the past 15 years, including in Aix en Provence, France, San Sebastián, Spain and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. And I’ve never been disappointed. No matter how inept you think you are, you will learn something, even it’s only, “Where’s the bathroom?” or “I’m hungry.” And you’ll have fun doing it.

My classes included students of every age and nationality, most with little or no serious language skills. In Mexico, one of my classmates was in his 70s. In Spain, the students ranged from 18 to 58 years old. And in France, the median age was about 40.

You may never lose your accent in a second language, but with a little time and work, you can become quite fluent. Best of all, you’ll make lots of new friends.

Finding language classes is easy – just Google the phrase and the city. I just did it for Lisbon and immediately found 20 listings. To narrow down the options, look at the size of the school and the number of students per class. Groups of less than 10 students are the most engaging. You’ll also often have a choice of half-day classes, full-day classes or private lessons.

In truth, a half day is about all that my brain can stand. But it also gives you the chance to immediately practice what you’ve learned. I also look for schools that offer afternoon activities. In San Miguel, my group learned how to cook mole; in Aix, we followed in the footsteps of Cézanne; and in San Sebastián, we swam out to Santa Clara Island, a lovely spot just off the coast (a short boat trip is also an option).

Foodie Fun

If learning languages isn’t your thing, maybe the language of food is. There’s nothing better than trying new dishes when you travel – except maybe learning how to make them.

There are various types of cooking classes, including learning with locals, hands-on experiences and established high-end (and high-priced) cooking schools. Just make sure to read the course description carefully, including the number of hours and whether your class includes a shopping excursion. And if you don’t speak the language, you’ll want to ensure that your chef speaks English.

You can also ask your hotel about local cooking classes; which is what I did in Marrakesh several years ago and was rewarded with a day of shopping and cooking with the Chef at our own Riad hotel. The morning of the class, another guest at the hotel joined in and the three of us ventured into the alleys of Marrakesh and shopped like locals – greeting and negotiating prices with each vendor and sampling everything. An hour later, we brought home a bounty of seafood, meat, fruits and of course spices, including the amazing ras-el-hanout, a dark and earthy mixture of anywhere from eight to 50 spices.

That afternoon, we cooked and tasted and cooked some more, all under the watchful eye of chef Abdelwahed. We then sat down to a feast of seafood pastilla, tagine of lamb with figs and walnuts, date ‘cigars’ and of course sweet tea. When I left Marrakesh, my new friend and I were both given a recipe book of all of our treats.So, remember to ask for something similar wherever you cook.

Yoga in the Sun

If you’re looking for more active ways to meet fellow travelers, there’s nothing better than taking lessons in the most popular native sports and activities; like surfing, snorkeling or even dog-sledding.

Want something a bit more Zen? Try yoga classes, which can be found all over the world. If you’re interested in being pampered, try Canyon Ranch, a wellness and luxury spa with destinations in both Tucson, Arizona and Lenox, Massachusetts. You’ll find everything from 8 a.m. ‘sun salutes’ to afternoon HIIT cardio combined with mindful stretching and gourmet meals.

For a more down-to-earth experience, there’s the Kripalu Center, a 100-acre former Jesuit seminary located just across the street from Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Whether you prefer Vinyasa, Kundalini or simply Restorative Yoga, you’ll find a class here to fit your mood.

If a tropical getaway is more your thing, Tulum is the place to be. Just over two hours south of Cancun by car or bus, Tulum combines quaint hotels with stunning sea views. At least a dozen yoga studios have sprung up in the past few years, and some hotels offer ocean-front lessons. You can book daily classes, weekly classes or even whole yoga retreats, where you’re likely to find other solo travelers.

And when you get tired of yoga, you can always stroll the beaches, grab some great food and visit the well-preserved Mayan ruins which dot the area.

Language, cooking and exercise classes satisfy my own unique interests, but the odds are good that there’s a class in a foreign land that addresses an area of your own curiosity.

What kind of class would you take if you were traveling alone? Do you have any other solo travel tips that you would like to share? Let us know in the comments below, or in the poll above.

Contact a AAA travel agent to start planning your solo trip.

Paula Levine is an Emmy Award-winning writer, producer and digital storyteller with over 20 years of experience ranging from broadcast to the web, focusing on health and lifestyle topics.

Let’s go, girls. Are you ready for a little escape with your female friends or family? Whether your planning a week-long vacation, a bachelorette party, a weekend getaway or just a day trip, these are some of our favorite girls trip ideas in the Northeast.

Girls Trip Destinations 

Long Island Wine Country

With 57 distinct wine producers, Long Island wine country is a rising star in the world of wines. You and the girls will love exploring the wineries of the North and South Forks of the island. You can choose a selection of vineyards and wineries to try on your own, or take a specialized tour.

Featuring a pedal-powered wagon that encourages theme costumes, the North Fork Wine Wagon is a fun girls trip idea. Long Island Wine Tours has tours that can last up to 9 hours, with wine tastings, a buffet and live music.

Mystic, Connecticut

Halfway between New York and Boston, the picturesque town of Mystic is ideal for meeting up with friends or family living across the Northeast. Mystic is home to the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Aquarium and Olde Mistick Village, a historic and quaint shopping village. Plus, AAA members can save on admission at the Mystic Seaport Museum.

Looking for more shopping? Head to Downtown Mystic, which features a wide variety of independently-owned shops like Mystic Knotwork, Bank Square Books, Alice in the Village and Hang the Moon, a shop that sells gifts for women, made by women.

SoJo Spa Club

A spa day is the perfect girls trip idea. SoJo Spa Club is a Korean-inspired spa and bath house in Edgewater, N.J., overlooking the New York City skyline. You and your girls can enjoy treatments like salt stone massages, Korean body scrubs, acupressure massages and more. You’ll also have access to all of SoJo Spa Club’s amenities, like outdoor heated pools and baths, hot stone beds, a variety of saunas, indoor baths and lounge areas. If you want to spend the weekend, you can book overnight stays at Hotel SoJo on Friday and Saturday nights.

Explore New York City With CityPASS

If you and the girls want something exciting to do, there’s no better girls trip destination than New York City. With so much to see and do in the city, how do you decide? And how do you afford it all? New York CityPASS covers admission to six top attractions, priced at 50% less than the same tickets purchased separately.

With CityPASS, you can visit the Empire State Building, the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. For the remaining three tickets, your group can choose the attractions that are right for you, like Circle Line sightseeing cruises, the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, ferry access to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, the Guggenheim Museum and more.

It’s a great way to explore the best of the the city without breaking the bank. AAA members can save when they purchase New York CityPASS.

Explore Boston With CityPASS

NYC isn’t the only place that offers a CityPASS. If you’re shipping off to Boston for your girls trip, Boston CityPASS covers admission to the city’s top attractions for 50% less than the same tickets purchased separately.

You and the girls can visit the New England Aquarium, the Museum of Science and go on a historic sightseeing cruise with Boston Harbor Cruises. Plus, you can choose between the Harvard Museum of Natural History and the Franklin Park Zoo for an additional adventure. AAA members can save when they purchase Boston CityPASS.

More Girls Trip Ideas

Paint and Sip

Paint and sip events are perfect for a group of creative ladies looking for a fun night out. Luckily, there are paint and sip locations all around the Northeast. The Artist Bar in Lowell, Mass., is a working art studio that hosts painting and flower arranging lessons. Essex Paint and Sip in Essex Village, Conn., offers classes by local artists and a selection of wine and craft beers. Canvas, Corks and Forks in Schenectady, N.Y., has painting classes, specialty cocktails and even a mac and cheese bar.

Foodie Functions

Everybody likes food, and all of the girls on your trip will love the taste of these foodie events in the Northeast. Food Done It, a food tour of Patchogue, N.Y., is an “edible mystery tour” that will allow you to sample the flavors of Main Street while solving a mystery as you go. Salem Food Tours offers a variety of food-tasting tours around the historic town of Salem, Mass., including the Salem Spirits Trolley, which explores the history of the spice trade. The Downcity Providence Food Tour from Rhode Island Red Food Tours will lead your party on a delicious walking tour of Providence’s foodie culture. Yum!

Where do you go when you want to hang with your gal pals? Tell us about your favorite girls trip ideas in the comment below.

Wildlife tourism is a massive industry, ranging from your local zoo to monthlong safaris across the savanna; it capitalizes on our desire to be one with nature, to see ourselves in the creatures with whom we share the planet. There are few things more awe-inspiring than a massive elephant, or the slinky strength of a tiger.

Some wildlife tourist attractions can be a net positive, according to a study by the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit at Oxford. Such attractions can provide job opportunities for the locals and help to conserve wildlife habitats. But wildlife tourism isn’t always ethical. In fact, it’s increasingly difficult to tell the difference between attractions that mistreat animals and those that provide them sanctuary. How can we identify ethical wildlife tourism? And how can we tell when things are wrong?

The Dark Side of Wildlife Tourism

In a 2019 article from National Geographic, “Suffering Unseen: The Dark Truth Behind Wildlife Tourism,” reporter Natasha Daly visited two different elephant attractions in Thailand. At Maetaman, in Chiang Mai, the elephants perform feats like playing the harmonica, giving people rides or painting pictures. They are constantly interacting with trainers, who – according to the story – prod them with sharp bullhooks. In between shows, they’re chained in small confinements. Afterward, Daly visits the nearby Elephant EcoValley, where tourists can feed elephants and even bathe them. The elephants can be seen grazing and bathing throughout the site, which includes a museum. But Elephant EcoValley and Maetaman are the same company. And they use the same elephants.

A similar strategy could be seen in the (now-closed) Tiger Temple, which operated as a religious site in Thailand. Tiger Temple was home to nearly 150 tigers, kept in concrete cages at night and drugged to interact with tourists by day, according to an article in Time. Why so many? Because tourists prefer to take pictures with cubs, and cubs grow up.

It would be disingenuous to only include examples from Thailand, because unethical wildlife tourism is a global issue. Its influence can even be seen on your social media feeds. Sites like Instagram routinely influence where travelers want to go and what they want to do. These sites are also full of pictures of people posing with non-domesticated animals in tourist traps. The problem is so big that Instagram discourages its users from searching hashtags like #slothselfie or #lionselfie (feel free to look at how many animal selfie tags have this warning – #lemurseflie, #tigerselfie, #elephantselfie, etc.) In 2017, Tinder begged its users to stop posting so many pictures of themselves lounging with tigers (I swipe left).

Wildlife Tourism Activities Done Right

When people post a picture with a frightened sloth or a toothless tiger, it’s not because they are bad or want to hurt animals. On the contrary, many of the wild animal selfie-takers write long captions about how they love animals and nature. The problem is that tourists routinely overestimate the wellness standards and conservation efforts of wildlife tourist attractions.

Animals are like us, but they’re not like us. It can be difficult to tell when an animal is frightened or in pain. Some of them even look like they’re smiling. How can we tell the difference between ethical and unethical wildlife tourism?

“Any facility that offers public interactions with wild animals, such as photo ops with tiger and bear cubs or primates, rides on wild animals, swim-with-the-dolphins, play sessions, or even public feeding can put both animals and the public at risk,” said Debbie Leahy, senior strategist of captive wildlife for the Humane Society of the United States. “In the interest of both animal welfare and public safety, responsible facilities do not offer close encounters with wild animals, including animals ranging from elephants and big cats to sloths and kangaroos. We recommend safaris and activities in which animals are seen in their natural wild environment, where they are free-roaming and free to express their natural behaviors.”

Leahy notes that the most ethical types of sanctuaries are those that house animals who cannot return to the wild, like those that are injured or have been rescued from captivity.

“Research a facility before visiting and beware of phony sanctuaries,” she said. “Some facilities claim to rescue animals, but breed animals and keep them in inhumane conditions, or use them for public contact. Many reputable sanctuaries are accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.”

Audrey Delsink, wildlife director of the Humane Society International Africa, has some more tips:

“Sadly, many vendors and operators will claim that their animals came from sustainable sources and are treated well. In the case of rescue/rehab centers and captive facilities, tourists can ask how many animals have been released back to their native habitats, if they allow breeding at their facility, if they allow physical interactions at their facilities (including bottle-feeding, petting, ride/walk/swim-with safaris, animal performances, displays and photo opportunities with captive wildlife), if they sell any wildlife products, or if the animals in their care are used for entertainment (bear-dancing, chimpanzee boxing, elephant painting, etc.)”

Sometimes it can be hard to accept these realities. Many of us daydream of the chance to snuggle a sloth or pose with an elephant. We don’t want to think about ethics and morals on vacation – that’s what regular life is for! But once you know about these things, you can’t turn it off. You can’t look away. And that’s for the best.

One of the best ways to see animals is in their natural habitat, like on safari. Seeing an exotic animal in the wild is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll remember forever. If you want to try it for yourself, talk to your AAA travel advisor about small group tours in Africa, where you can see magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat while also contributing to the local economy.

Tourist attractions are hugely influenced by consumer demand. If we are willing to dig deeper and ask tougher questions, there’s a real chance that they could change for the better. Instead of daydreaming of elephant selfies, now I dream of a sanctuary that contributes to the local community while treating the animals well. Where the tourists are content to see elephants from afar.

Eighteen years seems like a long time, but parents of grown children can tell you that the span between celebrating first steps to senior prom can fly by all too quickly. The same is true for family vacations. The window of opportunity for packing the whole clan into a car for a group getaway is surprisingly brief before the kids turn into adults and make exploring the world on their own a bigger priority.

Here’s how to get every smile and memory you can out of those 18 precious summers of family fun.

Ages 0-3

Nearby Road Trips and the Caribbean

Vacationing with a newborn or toddler quickly changes your travel priorities from museums and five-star restaurants to resorts with babysitting and an indoor pool.

The need for potty stops and avoiding restlessness argues for short drives over long road trips. Under four hours by car from Boston, Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Jeffersonville, Vt., offers child care programs for kids 6 weeks to 3 years old, along with a huge range of family-friendly summer activities, from puppet shows to arts and crafts programming to panning for precious minerals. For cooling down and splashing around, the Little Smugglers’ Lagoon has gentle waterslides, fountains and a lazy river.

Having kids in (or barely out of) diapers doesn’t mean having to forgo more ambitious travel, however. Nickelodeon resorts in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and Mexico’s Riviera Maya have extensive kids’ programs for all ages. In addition to cartoon-themed accommodations, character appearances, water parks and play areas, they make it easy on parents of young children by providing amenities like strollers, cribs, bottle warmers and baby food.

Ages 4-12

Theme Park and Cross-Country National Park Adventures

This age group falls right in the sweet spot for a trip to Walt Disney World Resort, which still belongs on any family vacation bucket list. Most of the Disney parks in Orlando, Fla., have seen some recent expansion, like the immersive Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experience near Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a new TRON-themed roller coaster in Magic Kingdom Park and the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind roller coaster at Epcot.

Speaking of sweet, Hershey, Pa., appeals to chocolate-loving kids with a factory tour at Hershey’s Chocolate World and thrill rides at Hersheypark. Lodging options run from campgrounds to the AAA Four Diamond Designated Hotel Hershey, which has Kids Night Out programs for ages 5-13, as well as cocoa-infused treatments at the spa for the grown-ups.

“National Lampoon’s Vacation” may have captured the highs and lows of a cross-country family road trip, but there are much better destinations to explore in the family truckster than the world’s “second largest ball of twine.” As your kids head into their tweens, follow the tire tracks of the Griswold family to the Grand Canyon, or go on a guided six-day adventure through Yellowstone and Grand Teton where you’ll see Old Faithful and some of the most spectacular natural scenery the U.S. has to offer.

To avoid the summer crowds at these popular parks, consider a road trip to the less-traveled New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia. A highlight of a visit to one of America’s newest national parks is the chance to paddle the New River. The upper part of the river is great for tweens with its long, calm pools and mostly gentle rapids. The park also has hiking and biking trails for all ages and abilities, plus scenic drives and activities like fishing and camping that the whole family can enjoy.

Ages 13-18

Rail Travel, Washington, D.C., and Europe

Seeing North America by train has been a family adventure almost since the transcontinental railroad was completed in 1869, and it’s still one of the most laid-back ways to get the pack on the (rail)road. For a long train trip, nothing compares to the Rocky Mountaineer, which has a new Rockies to the Red Rocks route between Denver and Moab, Utah, as well as Canadian itineraries connecting Vancouver to Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.

Another memorable rail journey closer to home is on Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express, which departs daily from New York City on a journey through the scenic Hudson Valley and Green Mountains to Burlington, Vt., on the shores of Lake Champlain.

And if you’ve been waiting to visit the nation’s capital, this is the time. The newly renovated Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, with exhibits focused on everything from the Wright brothers to future expeditions to Mars, may be the most kid-friendly museum in Washington, D.C., but it’s hardly the only one.

The National Zoo is famous for its resident pandas but also shares its conservation mission through daily presentations and animal exhibitions. Families will love the admission price, too; like all Smithsonian museums, the zoo is free, though passes need to be reserved in advance. The interactive International Spy Museum lets teens channel their inner James Bond (or the real-life CIA agent Sandy Grimes).

Kimpton’s The George Hotel on Capitol Hill makes a great base for White House tours and other D.C. explorations. The hotel’s First Family package offers discounts on second rooms and special kids’ amenities, and AAA members get up to 20% off the hotel’s best available rates.

These years are also ideal for creating core memories on a European vacation. Book a group tour for worldview-expanding encounters with art, food and architecture. Older teens will appreciate the history and culture of Europe’s treasures, not to mention plenty of opportunities for epic selfies in front of the most famous attractions throughout the continent.

18 and Up

Inspo for Traveling With Your Adult Children – and Their Children!

There’s a big side benefit of providing childhood travel memories – your kids may keep exploring with you as adults.

An all-inclusive family cruise has multigenerational appeal. Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class ships (the largest in the world) boast epic slides and zip lines for daredevils and low-key activities grandparents, parents and kids can enjoy together. There are many destinations and cruises that leave from homeports in the Northeast.

If active and adventurous travel is your family’s style, consider a small group tour, featuring immersive experiences at unforgettable destinations. Take your entire crew on a Botswana Family Safari or the Iceland Northern Lights itinerary, filled with hot springs, glaciers, volcanoes and maybe an aurora or two.

Turn your dream family trip into a reality. Take advantage of member benefits and savings when you plan with a trusted AAA travel advisor.

Featured image: IMGORTHAND / Getty Images

When winter arrives, cold weather, snow and ice can wreak havoc on your car and be potentially dangerous if your automobile isn’t properly winterized. One of the most important steps to take is considering a switch to winter tires. These tires are specifically designed to handle snowy and icy road conditions, as well as cold temperatures, which can harden all-season tires and reduce traction.

Proper tires go a long way in keeping you safe. After all, they are the only part of the car that touches the ground.

Do I Need Winter Tires?

The answer to this question depends mostly on where you live. If you experience just a few light snowfalls during the winter, you’ll most likely be fine with all-season tires. However, if you travel over snowy roads throughout the season, you should consider switching over to winter tires.

All-season tires are designed to be just that: tires that will be effective and efficient throughout the year. This works well during warmer months, as all-season tires have the proper traction and tread to handle clean, dry roads while maintaining peak fuel efficiency. But a tire designed to work well for most of the year sacrifices features needed to properly handle driving in cold, snowy weather.

“All-season tires, the type that most vehicles have, are a bit of a compromise,” said John Paul, AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor. “They need to work well in all seasons, at all temperatures…the reality is ‘one size fits all’ isn’t the case.”

“An old rule that I still use is that all-season tires work about 60%-to-70% as well as winter tires in four-to-five inches of snow,” Paul said. “If you need to be out before the snowplows or want the best traction for your vehicle, winter tires are the best option.”

Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires

Winter tires have specific features that distinguish them from all-season tires. The first difference is the materials from which they are made.

Tire rubber must be flexible in order to grip the road, but the rubber on all-season tires stiffens at a relatively high temperature. The rubber compounds of winter tires, however, are designed differently. “Winter tires have rubber compounds that stay flexible and sticky as the temperatures drop below freezing,” Paul said.

Winter tires also have unique tread patterns and deeper tread depths, which help channel snow and slush and expel water. The tread depths reduce snow buildup, allowing the tires to get better traction.

Buying Winter Tires

There are a few things to consider when switching to winter tires. Whenever possible, it is important to get the same size tires as the ones that are currently on the vehicle. Some sports cars will allow for replacements that retain the same height but have a narrower profile.

Paul suggests always buying four tires and having them installed on spare wheels. “Depending on the vehicle, you may also need to purchase four tire pressure monitors for the four new wheels and tires.”

Once the weather warms up, it’s important to switch back to all-season tires. The softer rubber compounds of winter tires will cause the tread to wear out on dry roads much faster.

Other Tips on How to Winterize Your Car

Check Your Fluids

Not adjusting car fluids could cause them to freeze and damage your car. “The antifreeze/engine coolant should be clean and protect the engine against freezing,” Paul said. “A 50/50 mix of engine coolant and water will protect an engine to 34 degrees below zero.” Other fluids to refill or replace include freeze-resistant washer fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering and brake fluid.

Test Your Battery

Get your battery tested if it’s more than three years old and replaced if it’s more than five years old. Cold temperature limits your car battery’s power output while simultaneously requiring more power to work. “A car engine needs about 30% more energy to start when the temperatures drop to freezing,” Paul said. “And at zero degrees your vehicle battery can only deliver at 50% of its rated capacity.”

AAA will come to you, wherever you are, to test your car battery and replace it if needed. Learn more about AAA Battery Service.

De-Icing

Ice buildup can freeze your car doors shut. If you find yourself in that situation, don’t use hot water. You’ll melt the ice but leave behind more water to freeze later. Use de-icer spray instead but remember – prevention is the key. When it’s dry outside, wipe down the door seals and spray the gaskets with silicone to prevent freezing.

Keep it Clean 

Wash your car regularly to get rid of road salt and other chemicals that cling to the undercarriage and cause rust. If the rubber on your vehicle’s wiper blades leaves streaks behind, replace them.

Have a question for our Car Doctor? Ask him here.

Find more info on keeping your car running smoothly all year long. 

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!

You’ve likely heard about sustainable travel – taking steps to reduce negative impacts on a destination’s environment and its residents.

This mindful way of traveling may soon be the only way to travel, as higher temperatures due to climate change and overcrowding stress popular destinations, prompting the reinvention of the tourism industry.

For Locals, Tourism Is a Gift and a Curse

Many countries need tourism to survive, but overtourism in popular vacation spots such as Italy, Spain and Greece left residents steaming and landmarks packed, according to Brian Garland, a travel advisor for AAA Northeast. Some cities lack the resources for such large crowds and are not equipped for sustained hot weather.

If temperatures continue to rise annually in Europe, those countries and others may drop off the summer travel schedule, he added. “Summer destinations may not be summer destinations anymore.” Already Scandinavia, the Arctic, the Canadian Rockies, Alaska and Iceland are increasingly popular summer vacation spots.

“Travel is harming certain communities, environments and ecosystems,” Garland explained. “Sustainability is not just a trend, it’s how travel will grow and survive. If places get over-toured, local economies will suffer.”

Enough Is Enough

In summer 2024 locals rebelled in popular tourist destinations of Europe and Asia. Tourists crowded out residents, pushed rental prices beyond the reach of locals and failed to clean up after themselves.

In an effort to control crowds, Italy started requiring reservations at popular beaches during the peak summer season and banned towels and chairs from some shores. Overtourism in Bali prompted Indonesian officials to enact a moratorium on the construction of new hotels, villas and nightclubs in some sections of the island.

Even the wide-open spaces of U.S. national parks felt cramped, with about 13 million more visits in 2023 than in 2022, according to data from the National Park Service. During the busiest times, visitors have to book ahead to enter.

In their quest to capture photos of the trendiest spots, tourists have forgotten they are guests in someone else’s home, leaving the locals feeling frustrated.

Putting Locals First

Spurred by necessity and client interest, the travel industry is increasing offerings not just in sustainable and authentic travel, but also regenerative travel to give back to communities.

“People are moving away from large bus tours,” Garland said. “So far, younger travelers are the most interested.”

During authentic trips, people embed themselves in a community, while regenerative travel involves contributing to the place you stay, from planting trees to helping build a school.

“In travel, we sell memories, so why not make someplace better and easier for people to visit, enrich it and the locals who work there?” Garland added.

Part of traveling authentically means, for example, staying at an inn in town instead of a chain hotel and eating locally grown, seasonal foods in neighborhood restaurants. “It’s using the local culture as a springboard,” Garland said. “It’s the choice about preserving traditions and engaging with that community in a sustainable way and minimizing impact.”

Also called community-based tourism, the goal is to put more money into the hands of residents. “The more you can become connected with the local ecosystem, financial ecosystem and the cultural ecosystem, the more likely you are to have a better time,” Garland said.

Keeping Up With Sustainable Travel

AAA Travel has been growing its involvement in the sustainable travel market. It now is partnered with Tourism Cares, a nonprofit dedicated to the long-term survival of the travel and tourism industry, to create sustainable itineraries for popular destinations. 

Overall, the U.S. is rapidly expanding its spot in the ecotourism realm. The nation’s sustainable tourism industry is nearly 7.5% of the global market. In 2023, that market’s estimated value was more than $258 million, and it is projected to climb beyond $663 million by 2033.

One of the fastest growing travel choices now is river cruising, Garland said. Not only because of the smaller ships, which have less of an environmental impact, but because there are fewer people and more opportunities to connect to the local community. Train travel also is growing, both in the U.S. and internationally, especially in Europe, Asia and Africa.

That doesn’t mean that AAA will be divesting itself from ocean cruises and flights any time soon, Garland noted. The Caribbean and Disney properties consistently are among the biggest draws. But AAA is taking other steps to be more sustainable, such as promoting EV and hybrid rental cars and finding other ways travelers can reduce their carbon footprint. “Travel agents are talking about sustainability in a way we didn’t five years ago,” Garland said.

Making Any Trip More Sustainable

Even trips to Disney properties can be more sustainable, according to Garland. Instead of eating all your meals and shopping only on-site, consider visiting at least one restaurant or business outside of the park and bring reusable water bottles. You could also set aside a few hours of your vacation to volunteer in the community.

“Just make one small change that saves resources,” Garland said. “You don’t have to become an eco-warrior. Just think about where your dollars are going, what you are taking out and how you can contribute.”

To make you next vacation more sustainable, contact a AAA travel advisor today.

More than 37 million tourists visit San Antonio every year. With so much to see and do, from remembering the Alamo to seeing the famed River Walk and noshing on delicious tacos, it’s easy to see why the Texas city is such a popular destination. Read on for eight things you must do to truly experience the soul of San Antonio.

Explore the San Antonio River Walk

The River Walk in San Antonio is one of the most popular past times in the city and for good reason. The urban sanctuary is lined with shops, restaurants and bars, making it an easy way to spend hours exploring the 2.5-mile long path. Take a ride in a river taxi to discover hidden seating areas, magical water features and some of the best people-watching in Texas, all just one story below the bustling street level.

Tour the Alamo

Get your fill of Texas history at the Alamo, one of San Antonio’s most visited landmarks, where a group of Americans made a heroic stand against a Mexican force in 1836 during the war for Texan independence from Mexico. Included in the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which officially opened in 1983, it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Alamo is free to walk around, but it’s worth booking a guided tour.

Get a Room With a View

Set on 550 acres atop one of the highest and most beautiful points in all of San Antonio, you’ll find La Cantera Resort & Spa, a AAA Four Diamond luxury hotel with 496 rooms, including 34 boutique-style villas. With nine dining options, endless pools, a gorgeous spa and two 18-hole golf courses, it has everything you could want from a vacation. For the little ones, there’s a kid’s pool and a daily camp program. If you’re traveling sans children, opt to stay on Seven, the adults only floor with a separate check-in, lounge and Alexa by Amazon in every room.

Find the Best Taco

Thanks to an undeniable influence from Mexico, San Antonio has some of the best Mexican food north of the border. Go on a self-guided taco tour; there are hundreds of taco stands and restaurants throughout the city from which to choose.

Spa Time

Loma de Vida – “Hill of Life” – is a 25,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor secluded destination spa carved into the hillside with dramatic views of San Antonio’s distant cityscape. The spa boasts 15 treatment rooms, separate VIP treatment rooms with old-fashioned Cowboy bathtubs and outdoor showers for a truly Texan experience. Indulge in a tantalizing spa treatment like the Absolute Texas, a two-hour long spa treatment where you’ll be scrubbed, wrapped and massaged with local beeswax, honey and lavender.

Vineyard Visit

Believe it or not, the Lone Star State is filled with a variety of award-winning wineries. While you visit San Antonio, stop at family-run Becker Vineyards. Located in Stonewall, just an hour away from downtown San Antonio, Becker offers tastings paired with cheese and tours of the facility, where you’ll learn about the production process and hopefully get a peek at the heavenly lavender fields. Good news – the tasting room is open seven days a week.

Kayak on the San Antonio River

Discover a different side of San Antonio by kayaking down the San Antonio River. Rent a kayak for the day or book a trip through the historic King William District with views of the downtown skyline and old German-style mansions. Paddling this area is relatively easy and suitable for beginners, so you can sit back, enjoy the Texas weather and take in nature.

Dinner time

Led by four-time James Beard Award finalist Andrew Weissman, Signature is a restaurant that highlights the authentic flavor and spirit of Texas Hill Country, all with impeccable Southern service and charm. Local and organic ingredients influence the menu; herbs may be culled from Signature’s own backyard. Enjoy a cocktail on the mezzanine level before dinner and browse global antiques like an impressive collection of Turkish bread boards on which charcuterie is served. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the Hong Kong-style sundae, made from a trio of ice creams, a macaron, pâte à choux pastry and chocolate sauce, all topped with saffron cotton candy.

Would you like to visit San Antonio? What would you like to do or see there? Tell us in the comments.

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